Cast: Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron, Kathy Bates.

Written and Directed by; John Lee Hancock

No matter what race or color, the World Cup brings together hundreds of players together. Now, if you love playing football, you’re going to love this movie, for its not just about football, its about living with someone you never knew, making that person your own, grooming to make him the best and accepting him as he is.

Here is a touching story that fans the flames of racism between white and black people. The son of a drug addict, the hulking, oversized frame that is Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), is taken home by white parents Leigh Anne Toughy (Sandra Bullock) and her husband Sean (Tim McGraw) when they discover that Michael is homeless. They offer him a place to stay for the night, which moves to a couple of days, until Thanksgiving Day lunch when they officially make him part of their family. Oher doesn't speak unless spoken to. He's too scared to express himself or his past life. The Toughys along with their son and daughter do everything they can to make Michael’s life better. Initially Michael is vague on what his future could be, until Leigh Anne grooms him to what he’s best at….playing football. She sends him for coaching, supporting his efforts at learning the game.

From a humble boy, he turns out to be a massive emotionally charged fighter. Soon Michael’s on field success is an achievement acknowledged by various agencies. But his academic achievements are on the downslide, preventing him for gaining a scholarship. Based on the book ‘The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game’ by Michael Lewis, this is one movie you cannot miss.

Bullock’s (‘Speed’) performance fits the role perfectly; no wonder she bagged the Best Actress 2009 Academy award. The handful of additional scenes on the DVD is the only extras here.

Rating: ****

Reviewed By Verus Ferreira